The Black Label collection from Dragon already offers a tantalizing
range of novel model kits. The latest item is another subject designed
to titillate – a 1/35 scale replica of the Alvis Saladin Mk.II FV601(C)
armored car. Bearing similarities with the Saracen armored personnel
carrier, this 6x6 armored vehicle was widely used by the British Army
from 1958 onwards, as well as by many other militaries. Production ended
in 1972, by which time 1,177 examples had been manufactured. The
11.6-tonne Saladin featured a turret mounting a 76mm L5A1 gun and a
coaxial M1919A4 machine gun, and it was operated by a crew of three. A
Rolls-Royce B80 Mk.6A engine powered the vehicle to a top speed of
72km/h. Saladins were widely used in Oman during the Dhofar conflict rom
1972-76, as well as in Cyprus (1970s), the defense of Kuwait (1990) and
the Sri Lankan Civil War. In British service the Saladin was eventually
replaced by the Scorpion CVR(T).

As to be expected for such an innovative subject, the 1/35 scale Black Label kits employs brand~NEW TOOLING~.
The distinctive form of the Saladin’s armored hull is accurately
replicated. Full treatment is also given to the chassis and to the many
components that are all but invisible when the vehicle is upright. Thus,
the upper and lower links of the suspension, plus the longitudinal
torsion bar system, are all beautifully recreated in miniature. For fans
of British Army armored vehicles, this Saladin Mk.II is an exciting
release. Furthermore, the vehicle was used so widely by numerous other
countries that many other mouthwatering modeling opportunities present
themselves.

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